GSMST

VITA

Mission/Purpose

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Association) is a national organization consisting of those in the community willing to help out those with less than a $53,000 income on their tax returns for free. VITA is consistent with the mission of service to others; after completing a training program during which volunteers become familiar with tax return preparation, students with supervision directly interact and help others.

VITA is an enriching experience both academically and socially for GSMST students. Not only does the club integrate with school curriculum with its application of mathematics and economics, it also teaches students valuable social skills when they interact with clients needing assistance.

Planned Activities

The students participating in VITA will receive tax preparer certification which is a very impressive addition to any student's resume. In addition, VITA fulfills inside service hour commitments for clubs such as National Honor Society and Beta Club. This is a unique, resume worthy experience that many students would not have the opportunity to participate in. Also, VITA adds a unique contrast to the existing clubs at GSMST becasue of the opportunity to interact with outside clients, as well as the valuable problem solving situatiuons when dealing with real life situations. Establishing a VITA program in Gwinnett County will be a great asset to its residents as other counties such as Cobb County have established VITA programs that benefit their community.